From the Studio
Stories, sessions, and studio updates from Jessica Doffing Photography
7 Newborn Bed Prop Poses Every Photographer Should Know
If you're ready to move beyond the beanbag, the newborn bed prop is one of the first props I recommend mastering. With just seven core poses, a few angle changes, and thoughtful styling, you can create 20+ unique images while keeping baby comfortable and settled. In this post, I'll walk you through my favorite newborn bed prop poses, safety considerations, styling ideas, and why this prop continues to be one of the hardest-working pieces in my studio.
Essential Posed Newborn Photography Props for Beginners: What You Actually Need to Start
Starting newborn photography doesn't mean you need to buy every adorable prop you see. In this guide, I'll share the essential posed newborn photography props I truly recommend after 13 years in business, plus budget-friendly alternatives, favorite vendors, and which purchases can wait until your business grows.
How to Start a Legitimate Newborn Photography Business: The Less Glamorous Essentials Most Photographers Overlook
Starting a newborn photography business takes much more than buying cute props and learning to pose babies. This comprehensive guide walks you through the essential business foundations, from legal setup and insurance to pricing, SEO, workflow systems, safety education, and portfolio building, so you can launch your business with confidence. Plus, download the free printable Newborn Photography Business Startup Checklist to keep yourself organized every step of the way.
33 Creative Newborn Photo Ideas That Celebrate What Makes Your Family Unique
Classic newborn portraits will always have a place, but sometimes the most memorable images are inspired by the things your family loves most. From favorite books and careers to meaningful family traditions and delightfully over-the-top ideas, explore 35 creative newborn photo ideas that celebrate what makes your family unique.
When Should Your Book Your Newborn Session? (And When Should It Actually Take Place?)
Wondering when to book newborn photos? Learn the difference between booking and scheduling your session, the best age for newborn pictures, and what to know about preemies, older babies, and lifestyle newborn photography.
What to Wear for Newborn Family Photos (Complete Guide for Parents)
Wondering what to wear for newborn family photos? From choosing flattering colors to coordinating outfits for parents and siblings, this guide covers everything you need to know for timeless newborn portraits you'll love for years to come.
How to Choose a Newborn Photography Mentor
Choosing a newborn photography mentor is about more than finding beautiful images. Learn what questions to ask, what to look for in a newborn photography workshop, and how to find a mentor whose experience, teaching style, and support align with your goals.
Soft Styling & Cozy Details for a Newborn Session
Soft textures, cozy details and delicate pink and cream tones made this newborn session feel both elegant and sweet. From wrapped poses to dreamy prop setups, this Austin studio session featured a beautiful mix of soft styling and timeless newborn photography inspiration.
Glitter, Confetti, and Pure Chaos (The Fun Kind)
Glitter sessions are playful, sparkly, and perfect for kids ages 4 and up. Think fancy dresses, confetti, personality-packed photos, and the most fun your child will ever have during a photoshoot.
Do Babies Need to Sleep for Newborn Photos? Here's What Happens If They Don't
Do babies need to sleep for newborn photos? Not necessarily. While sleeping babies allow for more traditional posed portraits, awake newborns can still create beautiful and memorable images. Here's what to expect if your baby decides to stay awake during their session and why photographers encourage sleep whenever possible.
Why a Cake Smash Session Is the Perfect Way to Celebrate Your Baby Turning One
Planning your baby’s first birthday? From whimsical floral setups to fun themed cake smashes and custom birthday invitations, these Austin cake smash sessions are the perfect way to celebrate turning one and create memories you’ll treasure forever.
The Kind of Photos That Matter Later
A collection of motherhood moments with newborns and toddlers - from cozy studio newborn portraits to playful outdoor sessions with older babies and kids. These are the photos that matter later.
How I Soothe Babies During Newborn Sessions (And Why It Usually Works)
One of the questions I hear most during newborn sessions is, “How are they sleeping through all of this?” The answer is usually a mix of patience, experience, understanding baby cues, and a few tried-and-true soothing techniques. Whether you’re a new parent or a photographer learning newborn posing, here are some of the methods I use to help babies stay calm, cozy, and sleepy during sessions.
Who Says It Has to Be Cake? 9 Fun First Birthday Smash Ideas
Not every baby wants cake… and not every parent wants frosting everywhere. 😅 Whether you’re avoiding processed sugar, your baby is obsessed with tacos, or you just want something a little more unique, these non-cake smash ideas make for adorable (and hilariously messy) first birthday photos.
A Newborn Boy Session (And a Little Chat About Bonnets)
A soft, neutral newborn session for a baby boy featuring classic setups, simple styling, and a quick answer to the question everyone secretly wonders… bonnets for boys?
How To Get Your Toddler (and Big Kids) To Actually Participate In Photos
Getting toddlers to cooperate for photos doesn’t have to feel impossible. Here’s how to make sessions fun, stress-free, and actually successful.
Newborn Photos That Scream Summer (In the Cutest Way Possible)
If your baby is arriving in the summer, this is your sign to lean all the way in. Think pool floats, beachy setups, and tiny seasonal details that make your newborn session feel playful, personal, and completely unforgettable.
A Sweet Birthday Photoshoot Idea: 4-Year-Old Twins at an Austin Candy Shop
A colorful, joy-filled birthday session with 4-year-old twins at a downtown Austin candy shop—proof that the best photos happen when kids are having fun.
A Relaxed Newborn Session with Parents (And What You Can Expect)
Wondering what actually happens during a newborn session with parents? From sleepy wrap setups to those final family snuggles, here’s a real look at how a relaxed, baby-led session unfolds.
Newborn Photography Workshops: What You’ll Actually Learn (And If They’re Worth It)
Curious if a newborn photography workshop is worth it? Here’s what you’ll actually learn, what to expect, and when mentoring might be the better option.